On Monday 17 September, a European Commission spokesperson said the EU and Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay) negotiators met in Montevideo on 10-14 September and made "limited" progress on the liberalisation of trade between the two blocs (see EUROPE 12096, 12068).
Technical work continued on the trade section of an association agreement between the two blocs "in a constructive atmosphere", a source assured.
A Commission spokesperson recognised that "only limited progress" was achieved on the important subjects of "cars and car parts, geographical indications, dairy and maritime services".
Contacts and exchanges between the two negotiating teams will continue over the coming days and weeks, the Commission assures.
The European Union remains committed to "a successful conclusion of an ambitious, balanced and mutually beneficial agreement with Mercosur, as soon as all the necessary elements are present", the Commission says.
As stated by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker in his letter of intent to the European Parliament and Council, the finalisation of the negotiations for an association agreement with Mercosur is one the key initiatives for delivery before the European Parliament elections in 2019. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)